The uses and applications of Titanium Dioxide may vary according to its specification. The main forms of Titanium Dioxide are dependent on particle sizes, surface treatment, and crystalline forms.

FDA’s response

≥105

According to the EFSA's Expert Panel on Food Additives and Flavorings 2021 opinion regarding titanium dioxide, it could not rule out a concern for genotoxicity from ingestion of the material based on a perceived gap in data on this risk, which serves as the basis for current ban, said a March report on the decision.

The most significant uncertainty identified by the EU experts was the concern that TiO₂ particles may have genotoxic effects. Genotoxicity refers to the ability of a chemical to directly damage genetic material within a cell (DNA), which may lead to cancer in certain situations. Although the experts did not conclude that TiO₂ particles in E171 are genotoxic, they could not rule out the concern that they might be.

From dyes to flavorings, many people are becoming increasingly aware of the ingredients in their food.

In a study published in the journal Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology in 2020, researchers examined the effects of food additives titanium dioxide and silica on the intestinal tract by grouping and feeding mice three different food-grade particles — micro-TiO2, nano-TiO2, and nano-SiO2.  With all three groups, researchers observed changes in the gut microbiota, particularly mucus-associated bacteria. Furthermore, all three groups experienced inflammatory damage to the intestine, but the nano-TiO2 displayed the most pronounced changes. The researchers wrote: “Our results suggest that the toxic effects on the intestine were due to reduced intestinal mucus barrier function and an increase in metabolite lipopolysaccharides which activated the expression of inflammatory factors downstream. In mice exposed to nano-TiO2, the intestinal PKC/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway was activated. These findings will raise awareness of toxicities associated with the use of food-grade TiO2 and SiO2.”

In its 2016 opinion, the ANS Panel recommended new studies be carried out to fill the gaps on possible effects on the reproductive system, which could enable them to set an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI ). Uncertainty around the characterisation of the material used as the food additive (E 171) was also highlighted, in particular with respect to particle size and particle size distribution of titanium dioxide used as E 171.   

The pricing of lithopone pigments can fluctuate based on several factors, including raw material costs, production processes, and market demand. Typically, wholesale prices reflect the bulk purchasing power, enabling businesses to acquire these materials at a lower cost per unit. Over the years, the market has seen fluctuations in prices due to changes in the supply chain and global economic conditions. It is crucial for buyers to stay informed about these trends to budget effectively and maintain profitability.

Specific gravity:

No acute effects of nano-sized TiO₂ were observed in Danio rerio (zebrafish) embryos. Exposure of rainbow trout to TiO₂ NPs triggered lipid peroxidation, influence on the respiratory tract, disturbance in the metabolism of Cu and Zn, induction of intestinal erosion  and accumulation in kidney tissue. Linhua et al. exposed juvenile carp to 100 and 200 mg/ml of particles and TiO₂ observed no mortality. However, the fish suffered from oxidative stress and pathological changes in gill and liver. In the infaunal species Arenicola marina, exposure to TiO₂ NPs in sediment caused sub-lethal effects including decrease in casting rate and increase in cellular and DNA damage. Aggregated particles were visible in the lumen of the gut, but no uptake through the gut or the skin was observed.

What is titanium dioxide? Why is it used in food products?

The Scientific Facts

Exploring the World of Affordable Titanium Dioxide Manufacturers

The gastrointestinal tract is a complex barrier/exchange system, and is the most important route by which macromolecules can enter the body. The main absorption takes place through villi and microvilli of the epithelium of the small and large intestines, which have an overall surface of about 200 m². Already in 1922, it was recognized by Kumagai, that particles can translocate from the lumen of the intestinal tract via aggregation of intestinal lymphatic tissue (Peyer’s patch, containing M-cells (phagocytic enterocytes)). Uptake can also occur via the normal intestinal enterocytes. Solid particles, once in the sub-mucosal tissue, are able to enter both the lymphatic and blood circulation.

Titanium dioxide morning tips
1 Rutile type titanium dioxide
As of the close of last Friday, the average price of the sulfuric acid rutile titanium dioxide market assessment is 15683 yuan/ton, the domestic market mainstream negotiation reference 15200-16200 yuan/ton, the mainstream factory in hand orders are okay, coupled with the upstream raw materials expected to be strong, the new single offer to maintain a strong state, the market low price supply reduction.
According to the feedback of manufacturers, the recent mainstream factory new single price, the overall market transaction focus has moved up. On the demand side, the terminal in August is still the off-season, many downstream last month to replenish just need inventory, the current batch purchase intention is limited, the market turnover is low. From the supply side, the mainstream manufacturers still have production reduction or maintenance adjustment inventory in the off-season, and the supply side output is low. Some plastics and papermaking related downstream feedback some models have high prices. Recent titanium dioxide raw material price upward support has been enhanced, comprehensive market factors, the current titanium dioxide market into the stable price state after rising.
2 Anatase titanium dioxide
As of the close of last Friday, the average price of the domestic anatene titanium dioxide market was estimated at 13,000 yuan/ton, and the mainstream reference range for negotiation was mostly centered on 12,500-13,500 yuan/ton. The actual direct selling link price is still more reference in 13,000 yuan/ton. Some lower-priced producers offer even lower prices. On the demand side, because the current price is still relatively low, some downstream bargain purchasing. On the supply side, some manufacturers operate at low load or have maintenance plans. The comprehensive market supply and demand situation and the trend of raw material prices rise, the current market actual transaction price is stable and strong, some manufacturers of titanium diox

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